College of Humanities, Education and Social Sciences
Explore the big questions with our wide-ranging programs.
Academic Programs
Our rigorous programs bring real-world experience to the classroom, building the knowledge you need to succeed.
Undergraduate
Graduate
Resources
Admissions
Take the next step to success: apply to a program in the College of Humanities, Education, and Social Sciences today!
Student Resources
Experience the range of CHESS student organizations and internships that will help you succeed.
Faculty and Research
Our scholars and professionals will help you develop skills to excel in life, the community, and worldwide.
PNW’s College of Humanities, Education and Social Sciences (CHESS) offers a range of hands-on courses that will prepare you to thrive in life after college.
Small class sizes promote opportunities to connect with your fellow CHESS students and professors, helping you succeed throughout your college journey.
Our programs provide students with real-world expertise and collaborative opportunities that will better prepare you for a successful career.
With more than 65 majors, minors and certificates, ranging from broadcast communications to psychology, CHESS has the right program to match your interest!
As a CHESS student, you will work with outstanding teachers who are also engaged in research and scholarships in their fields.
We are building a friendly, supportive community where you and your peers can connect, share ideas, learn together and explore academic inquiries.
Get active in the campus community. There’s a campus life here – give it a try! It will make your experience here a lot better.
The knowledgeability and accessibility of professors in both majors allows for a hands-on and unique academic experience. My professors have been vital in networking in my fields.
The constant support around me with professors and my fellow campus ambassadors, push me to help me find out who I want to become and who I am as a person.
I chose Purdue Northwest because the community felt like home while also providing a very engaging and purposeful academic experience.
My major is something that opens door for me to work with children as well as parents to educate them about growth and development as well as open up doors for both parent and child.
News and Announcements
Head of the Class: Meet 2025 PNW graduate Fatima Chavez
For Fatima Chavez, ‘25, a part-time job in a classroom prompted a passion for education that culminated with her degree this spring in Elementary Education: Special Needs.
Charting a Career: Meet 2025 PNW graduate Grace Mumaugh
Grace Mumaugh’s, ’25, her desire to care for others has led her to a B.S. in Nursing, along with a minor in Psychology from Purdue University Northwest.
Raising the Bar: Meet 2025 PNW graduate Mya Bell
A last-minute decision to join a PNW campus tour culminated in Mya Bell, ‘25, earning dual bachelor’s degrees in Human Development and Family Sciences (HDFS) and Political Science.
Important Dates
May 09
Spring 2025 Final ExamsSpring 2025 final exams run May 5 through 10. Good luck on your finals!
May 10
Spring 2025 CommencementCongratulations to PNW graduates! We look forward to celebrating with you at Commencement.
May 19
Summer 2025 Session 1 Classes BeginFirst day of Summer 2025 Session I Classes, including 12-week session, first six-week session and first four-week session.